Robert A. Gatzen

Robert Alan Gatzen, 74, of Newington, beloved husband of the late Joann Carter, passed peacefully at home on Friday, December 29, 2023, after living nine years with Alzheimer's disease. He passed away with his long-term caregiver by his side. Bob and Joann were married in 1970 and she passed away in 2016. Besides his wife, Bob was predeceased by his parents, Anne and Herman, and his oldest brother, Gary. He is survived by his brother, Bernie, sisters-in-law, Pat Gatzen, Betty Gatzen, Irma Carter, several nieces and nephews and many life-long friends.

Bob was born on March 23, 1949, and lived in West Hartford. He graduated from Conard High School in 1967. He started playing drums while a young teenager and his competency became apparent as he and four friends at Conard started the band named The Wanderers. They were well known in that era and that catapulted his life into a very successful career in percussion music. Bob studied at the Hartt School of Music and as his career progressed, he made the decision not to be a touring professional. He opened his Creative Music percussion store in Wethersfield and grew it into the premier percussion shop in CT. The name of the store personified Bob as he was and still is considered a leader and creator with his instrument. He retired from the business life and dedicated himself to other percussion interests. He worked out of his home studio, conducting R&D for multiple companies. He took his ideas to the invention level and holds patents for designs of drums and drum components, sticks, cymbals, and pedals. He invented and engineered the Drum Frame, a unique system to mount a drum set and seat. He was also known for his drum tuning techniques which he shared with the industry via a released set of videos. He initiated the education START program with presentations and performances in schools throughout CT. His desire was to instill in students the ability to innovate in whatever field they pursue, just as he had done in the music field.

Bob and Joann were devoted dog owners. They started with two Old English Sheepdogs and later in life moved to two Tibetan Terriers. They were active in training and showing their beloved pets in local competitions. They were also Disney lovers and they visited Disney World several times each year and always enjoyed it as a dynamic entertainment venue.

Bob's funeral will be handled by the Sheehan Hilborn Breen Funeral Home, 1084 New Britain Avenue, West Hartford. He will be interred in a private ceremony at West Meadow Cemetery in Newington. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, CT Chapter, 200 Executive Boulevard, Suite 4B, Southington, CT 06489 or to an organization of the donor's choice. Online condolences may be made at www.SheehanHilbornBreen.com